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Diagnosing the disorder

The study, carried out by the University of Alabama at Birmingham, highlighted that those individuals who create unusual concoctions - such as mashed potatoes and Oreo cookies - are more likely to be diagnosed with the disorder.

Worryingly, the research noted that one in four people create these strange food combinations on a regular basis.

In addition, it was also revealed that individuals who mix a variety of items reported the kind of emotions that are associated with drug use, including feelings of disgust and shame that exacerbate the symptoms of the disorder further.

Of the 500 participants from the University of Alabama and University of Texas at El Paso, some 40 per cent said they concocted food due to cravings, while just nine per cent admitted they were hungry at the time.

Dr Mary Boggiano, associate professor in the Department of Psychology and the study's lead author, said: "While they are food concocting and binge eating they report being excited, in a frenzy and high, but afterwards they feel awful about themselves."

She added: "Secrets can kill us. The more secretive a patient is with aspects of an addiction or eating disorder, the worse off he or she will be because they will continue to engage in their secret, maladaptive behavior."

Contact Life Works Today

To discuss how the Life Works team can help to support individuals and families dealing with an eating disorder or for further information on treatment programmes, please call: 01483 745 066 or click here to make an enquiry.